The vaccine helps prevent this infection. Children under 5 years of age, people with uncontrolled chronic diseases and older adults are the main risk groups.
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- Pneumonia is a type of respiratory infection that affects the lungs. It can be caused by viruses, fungi or bacteria. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 1.6 million people die annually from this disease. Dr. Javier Jáuregui, pulmonologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, tell us 4 important facts about this condition.
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- People who had severe COVID-19, were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, were left with sequelae in the lungs, and required mechanical ventilation are at greater risk of developing severe pneumonia. Here lies the importance of acquiring a healthy lifestyle and avoiding risk situations such as staying in spaces with little ventilation, overcrowding, or having contact with people with strong flu and/or cold symptoms.
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- It can be prevented with simple healthy habits: washing your hands with soap, cleaning and disinfecting frequently used surfaces, covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, managing persistent conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and wearing masks in places closed or poorly ventilated.
- Cough, yellow sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid breathing, wheezing, retraction of the lower chest during inspiration, general decay are the main symptoms of this infection. In these cases, it is recommended to go to the nearest health center to receive medical attention in a quick and timely manner and to perform a chest X-ray to assess the involvement of the lungs.
Pneumonia can be prevented with a balanced diet, control of environmental factors and especially with vaccination. Protect yourself and avoid putting your health at risk.
Dr. Javier Jáuregui
Pulmonologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma